Staff Sergeant
Benjamin C. Horton

Staff Sergeant Benjamin C. Horton was born in Texas and served in Europe during World War II.

During that period Staff Sergeant Horton improvised a sight instrument illuminator for use on 60mm and 81mm mortars. The instrument was unique in that it could not be detected by the enemy during night operations. Many refinements and improvements were soon developed, including those for a wide variety of weapons.

However, Sergeant Horton's work was the genesis for sight illumination and was indeed an outstanding accomplishment and great contribution to Ordnance.

Staff Sergeant Horton was awarded the Legion of Merit for his great skill and ingenuity in developing this piece of equipment.